Your speeding fine questions answered!

 

Q-How many points can I have on my license before i’m disqualified?

A-There are two systems in place. For the first 2 years if you hit 6 points it’s an automatic disqualification. After this you are allowed no more than 12 points over a three years period under the totting up rule. The disqualification period is a minimum of 6 months but could potentially be extended depending on your circumstances

Q- How long do points stay on your license?

A-It depends on the nature of how you received your points.

• 11 years for offenses relating to drink/drugs, careless driving under the influence of drink/ drugs, death by careless driving then refusing to give a sample.
• 4 years for reckless driving and disqualification offences
• 4 years for all other offenses including fixed penalty notices

When it comes to insurance, the companies will take in to account any points received within the last 5 years when calculating a quote.

Q-I received a fine how long till I get the paperwork?

A-The ticket has to be sent out in and dated within 14 days from when you received the fine. If it is dated after this time then it may work in your favour.

Q-I’ve had no points before and I was only slightly over the limit is there anything thing I can do?

A-If this is the case you should have the opportunity to take a speed awareness course. Check the paperwork when it arrives and give them a call. You`ll probably have to take ½ a day off work and it will cost approximately £20 more than the actual fine but you don’t get points.

Q-I’ve been flashed by a Gatso facing me across the road will I be fined?

A-If it is indeed a Gatso you should be fine, they are only designed to take a picture when a vehicle is moving away from you. The situation you are describing sometimes happens when the facing camera has no film and the flash becomes a little bit trigger happy. You also need to check it was defiantly a Gatso if for instance it was a Truvelo then this may be a problem as they are designed to take a forward facing photo.

Q-Can I challenge my fine?

A-Absolutely that is your right. If it is a relatively small fine such as a fixed penalty notice and you want to challenge without a high priced lawyer I suggest you purchase Driving secrets UK and give yourself the best possible chance, or if it`s looking like you might lose your license then a specialist in motor law maybe required.